Question

a patient who experienced trazodone - induced priapism is now stabilized and inquiring about future treatment options for his depression. what is the most appropriate course of action for the pmhnp?
re - prescribe trazodone at a lower dose and monitor closely
advise discontinuing all pharmacological treatments and only use psychotherapy
refer the patient to a different healthcare provider
switch to a different class of antidepressant, such as an ssri, after discussing the risks and benefits

Explanation:

Priapism is a serious adverse effect of trazodone. Re - prescribing trazodone (even at a lower dose) still carries the risk of priapism recurrence, so the first option is inappropriate. Discontinuing all pharmacological treatments and relying only on psychotherapy may not be sufficient for treating depression, especially if the patient has a need for pharmacotherapy. Referring the patient to a different provider is not the most appropriate initial action as the PMHNP can manage the antidepressant switch. Switching to a different class of antidepressant (like an SSRI) after discussing risks and benefits is appropriate because it avoids the risk of priapism associated with trazodone while still providing pharmacological treatment for depression.

Answer:

D. Switch to a different class of antidepressant, such as an SSRI, after discussing the risks and benefits